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Scanning electron microscopy evaluation of aligner fit on teeth
The Angle Orthodontist
|June 19, 2018
Summary
This study compared the fit of Invisalign and CA-Clear Aligner systems on anchorage teeth using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both systems showed comparable fit, with Invisalign excelling at gingival edges and CA-Clear Aligner on complex surfaces.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Technology
Background:
- Clear aligner orthodontics relies on precise aligner fit on anchorage teeth.
- Evaluating the marginal adaptation of different clear aligner systems is critical for treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally evaluate and compare the fitting accuracy of two clear aligner systems: Invisalign and CA-Clear Aligner.
- To assess aligner fit on specific anchorage teeth (incisors, premolars, molars) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Main Methods:
- Passive aligners from Invisalign and CA-Clear Aligner were adapted to resin casts derived from stereolithography (STL) files.
- Sections of aligners on teeth (incisors, premolars, molars) were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- 160 micrometric measurements were taken and statistically analyzed using ANOVA tests.
Main Results:
- Invisalign demonstrated a significantly better overall fit on lower incisors and lower molars.
- Invisalign showed superior fit at the gingival edges of lower incisors and upper premolars.
- CA-Clear Aligner exhibited better fit on complex occlusal surfaces of upper molars, while Invisalign was better at the gingival edge of the buccal aspect.
Conclusions:
- Both Invisalign and CA-Clear Aligner systems offer comparable overall fit on anchorage teeth.
- Invisalign generally provides superior fit at the gingival margins of aligners.
- CA-Clear Aligner demonstrates better adaptation on intricate occlusal surfaces, suggesting system-specific strengths.
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